What this means for weight
On its own, exercise often moves the scales less than people hope. According to a review, aerobic programmes in line with the usual recommendations bring a modest loss of about 2 kg at most, and this varies widely from person to person.[2]
One reason: the body saves elsewhere. An analysis of 1,754 adults found that on average only 72% of the extra energy burned really adds to what is used that day.[3]
Why it counts anyway
Exercise is worth it even without weight loss, because it has health benefits.[2] So the scales are not the right measure of whether it does anything.
How to start
Find something that fits your week and that you enjoy. Walking places counts too. In the app you can enter movement if you want to. If you have an illness or have paused for a long time, talk to your doctor first.
The app does not replace medical advice.
Sources
- Bull FC et al.: World Health Organization 2020 guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Br J Sports Med, 2020
- Swift DL et al.: The role of exercise and physical activity in weight loss and maintenance. Prog Cardiovasc Dis, 2014
- Careau V et al.: Energy compensation and adiposity in humans. Curr Biol, 2021